Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Couples in December
Top Things to Do in New York City for Couples in December
1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Stand hand-in-hand beneath the city’s most famous tree, framed by the Prometheus statue and the glow of Rockefeller Plaza. The hum of carols, twinkling lights, and winter air set a cinematic mood.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential New York holiday moment—perfect for photos, a first kiss under the lights, or simply soaking in the season together.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after 10 pm or just after dawn in early December for thinner crowds; the week between Christmas and New Year’s is the busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Approach via 50th St off Fifth Avenue to pair your visit with the Saks light show; linger by the Channel Gardens for a quieter vantage.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Couples call it magical and moving, with crowds considered a small price for the holiday glow.
2. Bryant Park Winter Village
Browse alpine-style kiosks, sip hot chocolate, and skate beneath Midtown towers at this cozy open-air market and rink.
✓ Why Go:
Shopping and skating in one stop makes for an easy, festive date with plenty of places to warm up and people-watch.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for the rink; late evening after 8 pm for mellow market browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring your own skates to save on rentals and warm up inside The Lodge between laps.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Atmospheric and charming; visitors love the holiday vibe and central location.
3. Radio City Music Hall
Step into Art Deco splendor for the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, a high-energy blend of precision dance, live music, and holiday nostalgia.
✓ Why Go:
A shared tradition that feels timeless—equal parts date-night spectacle and seasonal cheer.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday matinees or late-evening shows to avoid peak crowds and family rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Aim for mid-orchestra seats for the best stage view and arrive early to admire the Grand Foyer’s giant chandelier.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Joyful and polished; most feel it’s worth the splurge for a classic NYC holiday experience.
4. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights
Stroll through Brooklyn blocks where residents deck homes in extravagant displays—life-size Santas, synchronized lights, and towering inflatables.
✓ Why Go:
A whimsical, free-spirited date that turns a neighborhood walk into a holiday wonderland.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Nightly 5 pm–9 pm, especially mid-December; go Sun–Thu for easier sidewalks.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start near the famed Spata house, then fan out along 83rd–86th St between 11th–13th Ave; bundle up and bring cash for cocoa stands.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Spectacular and over-the-top; weekends can be shoulder-to-shoulder but worth it.
5. New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Watch model trains wind past miniature NYC landmarks crafted from bark, leaves, and pods inside the warm Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.
✓ Why Go:
Romantic, serene, and indoors—ideal for a cozy December date amid greenery and soft lights.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for relaxed browsing; reserve timed tickets early in December.
✓ Insider Tip:
Plan dinner on Arthur Avenue afterward for an Italian date-night finale in the Bronx.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Enchanting and artful; couples praise the calm pace and attention to detail.
6. Wollman Rink
Glide across Central Park’s storied rink with skyline views and evergreens dusted in winter light.
✓ Why Go:
A quintessential NYC date—photogenic, playful, and close to countless post-skate dining options.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning sessions or after 8 pm; weekdays are smoother and less crowded.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter at 59th St and 5th Ave to minimize walking; bring a small lock for lockers and hand warmers for comfort.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Dreamy and nostalgic; some mention lines but applaud the views.
7. Grand Central Terminal Holiday Fair
Peruse artisan gifts inside Vanderbilt Hall under soaring celestial ceilings—no need to brave the cold.
✓ Why Go:
Indoor shopping in an architectural icon makes for a relaxed, conversation-friendly date.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or early evening on weekdays; lunchtime is busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Whisper sweet nothings in the Whispering Gallery, then toast at The Campbell for a vintage New York finish.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Refined and festive; appreciated as a calmer alternative to outdoor markets.
8. Fifth Avenue Holiday Windows
Wander past couture storytelling at Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany, with music and lights turning the avenue into a living gallery.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a free, artful date full of photo ops and spontaneous romance in the city’s most glamorous corridor.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After dark Sun–Thu for the glow without Saturday crowds; dawn for empty-sidewalk photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start at 59th St by Bergdorf and stroll south to Saks, then detour to Rockefeller Plaza for the tree.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Dazzling and imaginative; crowds peak near Rockefeller but most find it unforgettable.
9. Staten Island Ferry
A free harbor cruise past the Statue of Liberty and twinkling Lower Manhattan—especially romantic at sunset or after dark.
✓ Why Go:
Big views at zero cost, with just enough time to cuddle on deck and snap skyline selfies.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour departures for color-drenched skies; late evening avoids commuter crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit starboard outbound for the Statue and port inbound for skyline shots; it’s windier than you think—bring scarves.
✓ What Visitors Say:
A surprise favorite—simple, scenic, and budget-friendly.
10. The River Cafe
Celebrate under the Brooklyn Bridge with candlelit tables, a seasonal menu, and postcard views of Manhattan and the East River.
✓ Why Go:
An iconic special-occasion dinner—popular for proposals, anniversaries, and end-of-trip splurges.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late dinner after 8 pm for a quieter room and sparkling skyline; weekend lunch offers sunlit views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress code is enforced; request a window table when booking or enjoy cocktails at the bar if tables are full.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Memorable and romantic; praised for service, views, and seasonal touches.
